Purchasing FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Records Building – 500 Elm Street, Suite 5500, Dallas, TX 75202 
Telephone: (214) 653-7431 • Fax: (214) 653-7449


When can I see a buyer?

8:00 A.M. - 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday
*Appointments are not required, but heavy work schedules make them advisable.


Solicitation Categories:

$0.01 to $3,000One (1) Firm-Fixed-Price Quote
$3,001 to $49,000Request for Quote Process
$50,000 & OverFormal Solicitation Process

What is a sealed bid?

A "Sealed Bid" is a response to a formal invitation for a bid (IFB). Award is made to the "Lowest & Best Responsible Bidder." Texas State Law requires IFBs to be advertised for two (2) weeks prior to the opening date. This Solicitation method is used for schedule of items type requirements.


What is a request for proposal?

A Request for Proposal (RFP) is a formal solicitation process for goods or services containing a define scope of work. Weighted evaluation criteria are incorporated for best value. The proposal ranking the highest after evaluation is susceptible for contract negotiations.


Where are formal solicitations advertised?

The Daily Commercial Record – Thursdays. You can also visit the Dallas County Purchasing Department’s website to see current list of solicitations:

https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/purchasing/currentbids.php


Where are solicitation responses opened?

Generally on Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. in the Dallas County Purchasing Department, unless otherwise posted or advertised.


Who can attend a solicitation opening?

Company representatives are always welcome at the solicitation opening. Purchasing Staff will read allowed the invitation for Bid Pricing. No information is released for responses to a Request for Proposal or Request for Qualifications.


Late Bids

Dallas County does not accept late bid/proposals. Bids/Proposals must reach the Purchasing Department no later than the advertised acceptance location, date and time. The clock in the Purchasing Department is considered the official time.